creative writing courses south london

passionate about writing - passionate about inspiration

Our creative writing courses are run at numerous venues throughout London and the South-East, where you will be amongst fellow creatives in a fun, supportive, inspiring environment to get you writing straight off the bat, building confidence and genuine momentum towards achieving your goals. Guaranteed!

creative writing courses

‘preparing to approach literary agents & publishers’ - creative writing course via zoom.

Course name: Preparing to Approach Literary Agents & Publishers Course code: PALAP Course price: £297 / £277 concessions (senior…

Wednesdays 31st July - 4th September 2024 - Six Week ‘Get That Novel Started’ Creative Writing Course - Southbank, London SE1

Venue: Southbank, London SE1 Address: Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London SE1 (meet inside main riverside entrance at the tables by the…

Saturday 14th September 2024 - One Day ‘Write A Complete Story’ Workshop - Southbank, London SE1

Saturday 21st september 2024 - one day ‘write a complete story’ workshop – brighton, east sussex.

Location: Brighton, East Sussex Address: commences on Palace Pier, Madeira Drive, Brighton BN2 1TW Date: Saturday 21st September 2024 Time: 10am -…

*PRIVATE GROUP* Thursdays 3rd October - 19th December 2024 - Twelve Week ‘Finishing & Polishing Our Novels!’ Creative Writing Course - The Ark, Turners Hill, Mount Lane, Crawley RH10 4RA

Venue: The Ark, Turners Hill Address: Mount Lane, Crawley RH10 4RA Dates: Thursdays 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st October; 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th…

Saturday 12th October 2024 - One Day ‘Write A Complete Story’ Workshop - Southbank, London SE1

Saturday 19th october 2024 - one day ‘write a complete story’ workshop – brighton, east sussex.

Location: Brighton, East Sussex Address: commences on Palace Pier, Madeira Drive, Brighton BN2 1TW Date: Saturday 19th October 2024 Time: 10am -…

Saturday 16th November 2024 - One Day ‘Write A Complete Story’ Workshop - Southbank, London SE1

Saturday 23rd november 2024 - one day ‘write a complete story’ workshop – brighton, east sussex.

Location: Brighton, East Sussex Address: commences on Palace Pier, Madeira Drive, Brighton BN2 1TW Date: Saturday 23rd November 2024 Time: 10am -…

Top 10 Best Creative Writing Courses in London (2022 Update)

Writing is one of the most crucial and widely applicable skills one can have, along with being a timeless art form..

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Whether you are a new or experienced writer, there’s a creative writing course you can benefit from. No matter what your creative goals are, these courses can help you brainstorm and stimulate your creative thinking.

The Top 10 Creative Writing Courses in London are:

Creative Writing Workshop with Articulate

Women's creative writing group with articulate, beginners’ fiction, novel writing in 3 months, creative writing intensive- 5 day workshop, ‘get that novel started’ creative writing course, virtual 1 hour creative writing workshop, live online: the decisive moment: writing a personal essay, write and shine summer program- transit, virtual space to write mondays.

Location: Hampstead, North West London

Get down to the nuts and bolts of creative writing in fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. In this class you will explore the various aspects of what it takes to be a creative writer.

With the guidance of Ruth, your talented tutor, you will develop techniques which will allow you to build your characters, setting, story arc, dialogue, research skills and so much more. Master the editing process and get valuable feedback and critique.

Ruth V Jarvis is a skilled author, editor and script consultant. Ruth understands the key components to develop and encourage others to build a solid foundation in their writing practice and bring their stories to life.

This women's creative writing group is yet another amazing creative writing experience run by Ruth at Articulate. This creative writing course for women of all ages will encourage you to write creatively by exploring the expression of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.

This course is an LGBTQ+ friendly space that aims to build confidence and relationships through sharing students work and ideas. As well as celebrating your favourite women authors, you will also share your creativity and develop various writing techniques such as dialogue, setting, story line and so much more.

Location: West London & Online

London’s very own Faber Academy offers this 12-week long, brilliant creative writing course for beginners. It runs from 22nd September to 8th December, with weekly sessions taking place every Wednesday.

The aim of the course is to teach you how to read like a writer, while developing your writing and literary skills. Each student will have the opportunity to have their work read and discussed during the workshop. By the end of the workshop, you would have written two short stories or the beginning of a novel. If you’re experiencing writer’s block and need to get the juices flowing, head on over.

Location: Central London & Online

This 3 month novel writing course offered by the Curtis Brown creative team for a reasonable price will help you complete that novel you’ve been thinking about, and even get a chance to publish! The course offers weekly writing workshops and teaching sessions on topics such as creating memorable characters, developing strong arcs, and writing authentic dialogue.

Furthermore, students will participate in workshops given by professional publishers, a major author, and literary agents. One on one interviews and tutoring sessions will provide you with the necessary feedback to improve your chances of publishing your novel! The course will have a hybrid mode of instruction with classes taking place on Tuesday evenings, alternating between a spacious venue in London and zoom. Sign up today and pursue your dream of becoming a possibly published author!

Location: Central London

As part of their Summer Schools and Intensives programs, City Academy is offering a 5 day intensive creating writing workshop for beginners. Seriously, all you need is a rough idea to work on, nothing else required.

If you have always wanted to try your hand at this, but never knew where to begin, consider this course. They walk you through various writing techniques and formats, with an expert tutor providing guidance along the way.

Location: South East London

This 6 week long course is suitable for beginners or experienced writers, with a variety of genres to choose from. The course will teach you key concepts such as character building, structure, framework, plot, theme, and drama.

In addition, you will work with other students by sharing your work and critiquing each other’s pieces to gain confidence, develop discipline and work ethic necessary for a writer. By the end of the course, you will have the first 10,000 words of your novel inked with many more ready to be written!

Location: Live Online Event

Join the lovely Diane Chandler, winner of the 2016 People’s Book Prize for Fiction and host of this workshop, for an engaging, one-off creative writing workshop. As part of the Creative Workshops London series, this workshop is being offered online only.

The maximum number of people in one workshop session is six people, to ensure maximum personal feedback for everyone. For those of you who have very little time and would prefer an online option, don’t miss out on this one!

This session walks you through the basics of writing a personal essay, and the nuances of it. It is being offered by the London Lit Lab and will be held on Zoom for 2.5 hours, on Saturday 10th July. The objective of the course is to teach participants how to take a decisive moment in their life and weave it into a personal essay.

The tutor Julia Bell is a published writer and a teacher, in Birkbeck where she is the course director for the MA Creative Writing program. Great personal essays can be very tough to write, and this would be a useful class to develop your skills for it.

Location: Virtual Class

The Write and Shine Program runs throughout the year, and is back this summer. They have a variety of classes on offer, and the running theme is that of writing about places, and cities in particular.

The session takes place virtually, in the morning hours. The Transit workshop is scheduled for 22nd July and focuses on different modes of transport and traveling. If you have the travel bug or wanderlust, you wouldn’t want to miss this one- it might even help you get a travelogue going.

Creative Writes is offering an amazing opportunity to get your creative juices flowing at a very friendly price! The offered course will guide you through fun, and creative free flow writing exercises covering a range of content and themes. Join in on the sessions from 3-4pm on Mondays and give your mind an unwinding, creative workout!

Need more advice?

Enjoyed reading about the top 10 creative writing courses in London? Take a read of some of our other amazing guides and best round ups below. We're sure you'll find something useful, oh - and don't forget to share the love. ‌Obby out. ‌

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Creative Writing Short Courses

With an impressive community of published alumni, a thriving writing community, and strong links to the publishing industry, our short creative writing courses are all you need as an aspiring writer.

Free Virtual Open Evening & Taster Sessions

Join us on Wednesday 11 September for our free online Open Evening & Taster Sessions. Speak to the team, learn about our courses, and take part in a free 50-minute taster session.

• Sign up to our open evening & taster sessions

Explore our writing short courses

Fiction: beginners.

• An Approach to Creative Writing
• Crime and Thriller Writing
• Short Story Writing
• Writing for Children
• Writing for Children Summer School

Fiction: Intermediate

• Crime Writing Intensive Intermediate
• Novel Writing and Longer Works
• Novel Writing Summer School
• Writers' Workshop

Fiction: Advanced

• The Novel Studio

Non-Fiction Writing

• Fact-based Storytelling
• Narrative Non-Fiction
• Writing the Memoir
• Writing for Social Impact

Business Writing

• Content Writing
• Introduction to Branding
• Introduction to Copywriting
• Writing For Business
• Writing For Business Summer School
• Getting Published
• Travel Writing
• Going Freelance with Confidence
• Introduction to Broadcast Journalism

Intensive courses

Summer schools.

• An Approach to Creative Writing Summer School
• Writing for Business Summer School
• Browse our other short course subjects

Taught by established authors, editors or industry professionals

Study at a leading London location

We champion diverse voices in writing through our scholarship schemes

Our writing community

Take a writing short course with City and join our thriving writing community:

• Share your work within a safe and supportive environment
• Benefit from our strong links to the publishing industry
• Enter our termly writing competition, City Writes , and win a chance to read your work to an invited audience
• Be first to hear the latest news through our Writing Newsletter championing student successes
• Gain from our inclusive approach through our scholarship programmes for the Novel Studio and Writing for Social Impact
• Become published by contributing to our City Short Courses Blog.

Alongside our creative writing courses, we also offer a range of highly popular business writing and journalism courses, designed to develop your writing skills within a professional setting. All business copywriting and narrative non-fiction students are also eligible to submit ideas for our blog which, if accepted, will then be professionally edited and uploaded to our site.

Our writing short course alumni have gone on to publish books; win writing prizes; get signed by agents; and study further at MA or PhD level. Enrol on a City creative writing course see where it might take you. Published Alumni from our Novel Studio course .

Recent Alumni Publications

Learning with us

We know flexibility is key for our short course students. That’s why we arrange sessions in the evenings and over the weekend. Looking for something more intensive? We offer one-day workshops and summer schools too. Our courses range from beginners to advanced, so there is something for everyone.

• Book a short course in creative writing

News & Events

• City Writes Summer 2024
• How a City Short Course can help you towards your novel writing dreams
• Listen to 2023's Novel Showcase and find out more about the agent-packed event
• Former Narrative Non-Fiction student and now published author, Ciaran Thiapar, is now teaching his own course to inspire young writers
• Novel Studio alumnus Laurence Kershook's journey towards The Broygus, his first published novel 
• Read about Writers’ Workshop alumnus and published children’s author Michael Mann’s guest appearance

Follow us on twitter

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Learn the skills you need to succeed with our industry recognised courses.

Our courses were developed by industry experts - learn from the professionals.

Discuss your options with our experienced team to find the right course for you.

Our experienced team can answer any questions you have about our courses, general enquiries and payment options. Simply complete this form and we will contact you as soon as possible.

Our philosophy at the British Academy of Creative Writing is to make high-quality education accessible to all by empowering people to do what they love. Through the power of online and blended learning, our students are able to harness their creativity and practically apply it to succeed in their chosen careers.

Pursue your ambition - because the future is today!

Common misconceptions about creative writing

We highlight the benefits of developing your creative writing skills

Building your first story from scratch

Finding your unique voice: Strategies for distinctive storytelling

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The British Academy of Creative Writing is a leading provider of accredited, industry recognised creative writing qualifications in UK.

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• Introductory and general creative writing courses

Creative Writing Courses Online & in London

Learn from published authors in a relaxed and safe environment!

Fancy trying your hand at creative writing? Or are you looking to take your passion for writing to the next level? Find your inspiration to write at the college where Andrea Levy, Malorie Blackman, Anna Burns, and other celebrated authors studied.

Learn the art of creative writing from published writers in a range of courses designed to support and encourage your creativity. You'll explore your own potential, discover a range of literary forms and techniques, and develop your writing skills. Our courses will help you grow your confidence and passion for writing, while motivating you to achieve your personal goals.

Workshops available both online and in-person

To help you fit your studies around your busy life, you have the freedom to either learn online in the comfort of your own home, or in a classroom setting from our Central London location. Whatever your preference, you'll be able to meet fellow learners, interact, share, and learn in a way that motivates and inspires you. For more information about our live online courses, please see our  guide to online learning .

Choosing a level that's right for you – beginner to advanced level

Whether you're completely new to creative writing, have some previous experience, or you're writing at the professional level, we have courses that can support your needs. Our goal is to provide a supportive space in which you feel empowered to experiment, express your ideas, and challenge yourself to write creatively to a level that feels right for you.

Find your voice and nurture your creativity

On our courses, you'll receive guidance on how to give and receive constructive feedback on written work, and learn how to use that feedback to improve your writing. You'll share ideas and sharpen your critical thinking skills through close analysis of peer and published work, as well as growing your vocabulary, your communication skills, and your knowledge of the mechanics of writing.

For the latest news, courses, events and competitions, stay in touch with the Department on  Facebook  and  Twitter .

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The Home of Creative Writing

Arvon is a charity that runs creative writing courses, events and retreats both in-person and online. Our courses are tutored by leading authors and include a powerful mix of workshops and individual tutorials, with time and space to write, free from distractions of everyday life. Grants and concessions are available to help with course fees.

ARVON COURSES & RETREATS

Masterclass: the poetic line.

Dashes, slashes and white space

• Screenwriting

Online Writing Day: Screenwriting

Transform your screenplay

• Totleigh Barton

Poetry , Non-Fiction

Residential Writing Week: Poetry & Memoir

New ways of looking at the natural world

• Non-Fiction

Masterclass: Writing Difficult Stories

‘But how do I write about…that?’

Online Writing Week: Non-Fiction

People and places

How I Write: Angela Hui

Q&A and Reading

Masterclass: Crime Fiction

Feeling the solve

Residential Writing Week: Poetry

Landscape and the body

“Every time I’ve taught at Arvon - going back over fifteen years now - I’ve seen how much difference just a handful of days can make in the life of writers. There’s a perfect mix of tutorials, writing time, socializing, and discussion - all those elements come together to create an atmosphere in which writing projects move in that longed-for but often unattainable direction: forward.”

— Kamila Shamsie

ARVON AT HOME

Our online programme of courses, events and writing support

Virtual versions of our famous Writing Weeks, plus Masterclasses, free How I Write events, Online Writing Weekends, Writing Days and more . . . all accessible from the comfort of your sofa.

SUPPORT ARVON NORTH

Arvon North is an ambitious capital project to adapt Lumb Bank into a beacon of creativity for the North

Help us transform Lumb Bank into an engine-house for creative writing development in the North of England, connecting the rich literary collateral of the region with a community of writers locally, regionally, nationally and globally.

CLOCKHOUSE WRITERS' RETREAT

Give your writing the time and space it deserves with Arvon’s dedicated Writers Retreat at The Clockhouse

The Clockhouse is specifically designed for writers on retreat. It has four apartments for writers, each with bedroom, study-lounge and bathroom. All food is provided for you, so you can spend your time as you please.

DONATE TO ARVON

Do you believe that everyone should have the opportunity to unlock their creative potential?

Arvon is a charity that believes everyone deserves the freedom to imagine, write and explore ideas regardless of their age or financial background.

OUR SCHOOLS & GROUPS WORK

We offer residential weeks for schools, young people and adult groups.

Our weeks for schools and groups follow the same pattern as our adult course programme – led by two professional writers, with tutorials, group workshops, and time and space to write.

ARVON BLOGS

My Arvon Week: Daphne Pleace

13 Aug 2024 / My Arvon Week

I consider myself to be quite well-travelled in the UK – always finding new places and new ways to write about…

Northern Writers’ Awards 2024

26 Jun 2024 / Arvon Friends

New Writing North celebrated its 25th anniversary with an awards ceremony honouring writers in fiction and poetry. As part of the…

Quay Words and Arvon Live: Fiction Writing Day

05 Jun 2024 / News

Do you have a novel writing project that needs attention? Perhaps you need some technical help, are looking for tips to…

My Arvon Week: Jessica Eve Watkins

15 Apr 2024 / My Arvon Week

A preview of Jessica Eve Watkin’s experience on a week-long writing retreat at Arvon’s writing house, The Hurst. “ ‘The…

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Want to know what's coming up in the next week? Arvon’s newsletter is the best way to avoid missing out on anything - from new and upcoming courses, to Arvon giveaways and writing and self-development opportunities.

FIND A COURSE OR RETREAT

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The creative writing school led by literary agents

Start your story with expert teaching from acclaimed writers and top literary and talent agents. Courses online and in London.

Writing Your Novel

Take your writing seriously on our flagship course, hone your novel and learn how to pitch to agents. Choose to study with us in London or online, no matter what stage of writing or editing you're currently at.

Breakthrough

Our exciting programme of free scholarships, courses and mentoring opportunities for under-represented writers. Fully funded by the Curtis Brown literary agency and our partners.

Discoveries

We and the Curtis Brown literary agency are proud to partner with the Women’s Prize Trust and Audible to run Discoveries, a writing development prize that supports aspiring female novelists. Discoveries 2025 will open for entrants in Sept 2024.

What our students say about us

We foster communities of writers who stay closely in touch long after our courses end.

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SUBJECT LEAGUE TABLE 2025

A Creative Writing degree will let you flex your storytelling abilities and study the work of literary legends.Our university rankings for Creative Writing include Scriptwriting and Poetry Writing.

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• University of Warwick VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Royal Holloway, University of Londo... IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES University of Birmingham VIEW COURSES University of Leeds VIEW COURSES Newcastle University VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Lancaster University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of East Anglia UEA IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES GET PROSPECTUS IN CLEARING University of Strathclyde IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Kent IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Plymouth IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Lincoln IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Keele University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Manchester Metropolitan University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Hull IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Kingston University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Chester IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Edge Hill University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES Bournemouth University VIEW COURSES Bristol, University of the West of ... VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Canterbury Christ Church University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Aberystwyth University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Nottingham Trent University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Brunel University London IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Essex IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Westminster, London IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Bangor University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Portsmouth IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Teesside University, Middlesbrough IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Bath Spa University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Brighton IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Greenwich IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING De Montfort University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Gloucestershire IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Sheffield Hallam University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Anglia Ruskin University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING York St John University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Birmingham City University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Chichester IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Liverpool Hope University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Winchester IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Salford IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Central Lancashire IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Arts University Bournemouth IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Worcester IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES University of Bolton VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Liverpool John Moores University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Derby IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Falmouth University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING St Mary's University, Twickenham IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Wolverhampton IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES
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This table was first published on 14 May 2024. 

Read the  University and subject tables methodology  to find out where the data comes from, how the tables are compiled and explanations of the measures used. 

All measures used to compile the tables are available on the full table view. Maximum scores for the measures: 

Overall score: maximum score of 1000 

Entry standards: no maximum score  

Student satisfaction: maximum score of 4

Research quality: maximum score of 4 

Continuation: maximum score of 100 

Graduate prospects – outcomes: maximum score of 100 

Graduate prospects – on track: maximum score of 100 

The following institutions have courses in this subject but insufficient data to be included in the ranking:  

• - Birmingham Newman University
• - Cardiff Metropolitan University
• - Cardiff University
• - Coventry University
• - Goldsmiths, University of London
• - Leeds Arts University
• - Leeds Beckett University
• - Leeds Trinity University
• - London Metropolitan University
• - Loughborough University
• - Middlesex University
• - Oxford Brookes University
• - Plymouth Marjon University
• - Queen's University Belfast
• - Staffordshire University
• - Swansea University
• - University of Aberdeen
• - University of Bedfordshire
• - University of Dundee
• - University of East London
• - University of Hertfordshire
• - University of Huddersfield
• - University of Leicester
• - University of Nottingham
• - University of Oxford
• - University of Reading
• - University of South Wales
• - University of Suffolk
• - University of Surrey
• - University of Wales Trinity Saint David
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16 Top Creative Writing Workshops in London

By Katrina Kwan

Different types of writing classes in London are aplenty.

And if it’s a creative writing class you’re looking for, continue reading.

Below you’ll find 16 top creative writing workshops in London.

1. Half-Day Writing Workshops with Creative Writing Workshops London

Hosted by Diane Chandler, the winner of the 2016 People’s Book Prize for Fiction , Creative Writing Workshops London is currently offering half-day writing workshops through the months of March, May, and June of 2020. These writing workshops are available for a flat fee of £40.00, and includes provided coffee and baked goods. Based out of Chiswick, London, classes primarily take place in the morning.

These classes will help you create better characters, develop page-turning plot, help to create engaging dialogue, and assist you with writing captivating description. Each workshop takes roughly three hours and accepts up to eight people per class, so be sure to reserve your place as soon as possible. For more information or general inquiries, you can contact Diane via email .

2. Space to Write Wednesdays with Creative Writes

Creative Writes is a creative writing and poetry reading workshop that was founded by Nichola Charalambou. Based out of Muswell Hill, London, Creative Writes offers Space to Write Wednesdays , a creative writing workshop hosted between the months of April to June of 2019. Each class takes place between 7:30PM to 9:30PM.

This creative writing workshop in London is designed to help you with free flow writing, as well as to help develop your work in progress. The fee for this course is £25.00 per class, with included refreshments. For more information or general inquiries, you can contact the team at Creative Writes through their website’s online contact form .

3. Write Better Short Stories with Jane Rogers

Led by award-winning novelist and short story writer Jane Rogers, Write Better Short Stories is a creative writing course offered through London’s very own Faber Academy. This course takes place between May 2 nd , 2019 to July 18 th , 2019, and costs a flat fee of £995.00. Classes take place between 7:00PM to 9:00PM every Thursday evening. Tea and coffee will be provided!

This 12-week course will help you develop your writing skills, increase your knowledge about the short story genre, provide you with individual feedback, and will even help to take three of your stories and prepare them for submission. There are only two places left, so it’s imperative that you register for the course as soon as possible to reserve your spot. For more information or general inquiries, you can contact the team at Faber Academy either through their website’s online contact form or call 0207 927 3868.

4. Folk Tales in New Fiction with London Lit Lab

The London Lit Lab is a creative writing group that offers a wide range of writing resources and workshops for both professional and aspiring authors. They are currently offering Folk Tales in New Fiction led by Zoe Gilbert, who is a published author through Bloomsbury and a PhD candidate for Creative Writing. The course itself will look at symbolism, how to develop recognizable characters, use preexisting tales as jumping off points for your own fiction, and examine what makes successful re-imaginings.

The course takes place on May 11 th , 2019 between 10:00AM to 4:00PM and costs a flat fee of £115 for early bird registration, or £139 for regular registration. The class will take place at the Keynes Library, Birbeck School of Arts located at 43 Gordon Square, London. Class size is limited to fifteen students, so be sure to register right away . For more information or general inquiries, you can contact the team via email or visit their Facebook page .

5. How to Write A Poem with Richard Scott & Maurice Riordan

How to Write a Poem is a creative writing workshop currently offered by Faber Academy, led by poets Richard Scott and Maurice Riordan. This is a three-month poetry course designed for beginners looking to develop their poetic skills. The course takes place between April 30 th , 2019 to July 16 th , 2019 and costs a flat rate of £480.00.

All classes take place between 7:00PM to 9:00PM on Tuesday evenings and will explore topics like voice, self-portraiture and objects, drafting, line breaks, genre mixing, and more. There are only seven spot left, so it’s imperative you register right away.

6. Write & Shine with Gunnersbury Park & Museum

The Gunnersbury Park & Museum offers a program known as Write & Shine, an early morning writing workshop that offers several classes in London and online. Led by Gemma Seltzer, a talented writer who’s worked with organizations like Age UK, BBC Radio 3, Tate Modern, and the Venice Biennale, Write & Shine offers 90-minute writing workshops based out of central London.

The next session is schedule to take place on April 14 th , 2019 between 10:15AM to 12:00PM. A light breakfast will be provided for those who attend. If you’re interested in this writing workshop, you can apply for a spring membership for a flat rate of £129. For more information or general inquiries, you can contact the team at Write and Shine through their website’s online contact form .

7. Fiction Skills: Plot with Tom Bromley

Tom Bromley is currently hosting Fiction Skills: Plot through Faber Academy. He is an author, editor, and ghostwriter with a ton of experience writing both fiction and nonfiction books. The course itself takes place between June 3 rd to 30 th , 2019 and actually takes place online for the convenience of his students.

The course will go over tips and strategies on how to plot, provide a creative and supportive writing group to help you nurture your writing skills, as will provide you with the opportunity of writing a 2k word piece to be critiqued and worked on over the duration of the course. There is a flat fee of £120.00 and there are currently twenty-eight places left to register!

8. One to One MasterClass with Creative Writes

Creative Writes offers one to one masterclasses to assist you in your writing career. They offer one-hour masterclasses for a flat rate of £60.00 and two-hour masterclass for £110.00. All classes are located at their Muswell Hill location, and you can book the course based on your schedule availability. In this workshop, you will be guided through how to adapt your work structure and truly organize your thoughts to help give your writing clarity and a unique voice. You will work closely with Nichola Charalambou, the founder of Creative Writes, who will guide you through the writing process. For more information, you can call 079 4109 1313.

9. Getting Started: Beginner’s Fiction with Helen Shipman

Getting started on a brand-new project can sometimes be tricky, but with a guiding hand, you may be surprised at just how quickly your words find a blank page. Helen Shipman is a writing coach with over 30 years of experience. She is currently offering Getting Started; Beginner’s Fiction , a creative writing course offered through Faber Academy. This 8-week course takes place between June 3 rd , 2019 to July 28 th , 2019 and costs £300.00. There are currently seventeen places left, so it’s important to register as soon as possible if you’re interested.

The course will go over how to develop your creativity and discipline, point of view, character development, setting establishment, dealing with time, structure, and how to organize your writing time. This is actually an online course, which means that students can participate regardless of location!

10. Creative Writing Through Art with Gina DeCagna (Studio 73)

Studio 73 present Creative Writing Through Art , lead by writer, editor, and visual artist Gina DeCagna. The workshop will take place April 23 rd , 2019 between 7:00PM to 9:00PM at the Studio 73 Gallery in London. This workshop is intended for novice and expert writers alike, and will go over development of writing techniques in the genres of poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and more. The workshop itself costs a flat fee of £16.58 and will be located at 73 Brixton Village, London. You can register for the course here . For more information or general inquiries, you can contact the organizers via email or call 020 7274 7773.

11. Start Your Novel in Five Days with Kathryn Heyman & Mark Haddon

If you’re an aspiring author looking for guidance on how to start your very first novel, consider checking out the Star Your Novel In Five Days workshop led by authors Kathryn Heyman and Mark Haddon. This course will take place between June 17 th to June 21 st , 2019 and costs a flat rate of £550. There are only eleven spots left, so be sure to register right away. This workshop was designed to guide you step by step to help get your novel from idea to reality. This intensive course will take place at Faber Academy located at 74-77 Great Russell Street, London. For more information, you can call 207 927 3827 or email the organizers for general inquiries.

12. Film and Creative Writing Workshop with Amir Darwish & Adam Skup (Hikayetna)

In collaboration with Hikayetna and Near Neighbours, Film and Creative Writing Workshop is a free workshop lead by Amir Darwish and Adam Skup. This course is intended to help creative individuals develop their ideas through visual, oral, and written forms of art. Refreshments will be offered. The course will take place on April 6 th , 2019 between 12:00PM to 4:00PM at Noel Rd, London. For more information or general inquiries, you can contact the event organizers via email .

13. Free Your Creativity and Get Started on Your Book with Guardian Masterclasses

The Guardian is a renowned newspaper that also offers writing courses at their London location. They are currently hosting the Free Your Creativity and Gest Started On Your Book masterclass, which will take place between May 18 th , 2019 to May 19 th , 2019 from 10:00AM to 4:00PM. Led by Philippa Pride, who has been running the course since 2006, the workshop will go over how to set up a consistent writing schedule, how to practice your creativity, how to develop your narrative, create compelling plots, characters, and dialogue, and more. The course costs £499.00 plus a £7.80 registration fee. For more information, you can contact Guardian Masterclasses via email .

14. Introduction to Creative Writing (Goldsmiths, University of London)

Goldsmiths University of London offers several creative writing programs that can help you develop your skills and put you on the right track to starting your writing career. They are currently offering Introduction to Creative Writing May 1 st , 2019 between 6:30PM to 8:30PM (10-week duration), and November 9 th , 2019 between 10:00AM to 3:00PM (5-week duration). The flat fee for the course is £295. The course is led by Dr. Catherine Humble, a writer, lecturer, and journalist with experience as a creative writing teacher. For general inquiries, you can contact the organizers at Goldsmiths via email .

15. Write Here with Emma Filtness (Cultural Connections Christ Church)

Cultural Connections Christ Church is currently hosting Write Here led by author Emma Filtness. The workshop will take place on May 18 th , 2019 between 2:00PM to 4:00PM at the Clapham Library, located at 91 Clapham High Street, London. No previous writing experience is necessary.

The workshop is designed to help writers develop their short story, poetry, life writing, and flash fiction writing techniques. It is a free event, but space is limited. If you’re interested in participating, be sure to sign up as soon as possible! For more information, you can contact the Cultural Connections Christ Church via email or call 020 7498 4625.

16. How to Write Compelling Memoir with London Lit Lab

The London Lit Lab is currently offering How to Write Compelling Memoir led by novelist and creative nonfiction writer Lily Dunn. This class will take place on October 5 th , 2019 between 10:00AM to 4:00PM at the Keynes Library, Birkbeck, University of London, at 43 Gordon Square, London. Early bird registration starts at £115, and regular registration starts at a rate of £139.

This workshop will help budding memoirists in their pursuit of recounting personal experiences, discuss confidentiality and ethical issues, as well as explore the use of creativity in memoir. Space is limited to fifteen members, so be sure to register if you’re interested! For more information, you can contact the organizers via email .

Do you know of any other creative writing workshops in London, England? Please tell us about them in the comments box below!

K. Z. Kwan is a freelance writer based out of Halifax, Canada.

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Creative Writing: Short Stories and First Chapters (evening)

At a Glance

• Classroom course (South Kensington)
• Wednesdays 18:00 - 20:00
• 10 weeks | October - December
• Starts 2 October 2024
• Fees from £144
• Tutor: Martin Ouvry

On this course we will take you on a journey to find or further develop ways to express your ideas in writing, either in the form of a short story or a passage from a longer piece of work.

Our evening course seeks to educate the imagination and equip you with the technical and practical know-how to fulfil your writing aims.

At the end of the course you will have:

• produced a written piece of between 1,000-2,000 words which will take the form of a self-contained short story or a chapter of a novel or memoir;
• identified, or further developed, ideas towards the production of a piece of writing;
• explored key writing techniques, methods and forms that relate to your own interests and skills as a writer.

On this interactive, discussion-centred course, teaching is delivered in a friendly and guided environment offering the necessary positive and constructive criticism appropriate to the emerging work of each member of the group. The sessions will be further supported by short extracts from great works of fiction and books on the craft, drawn from a diverse community of writers.

This course is normally offered termly and has a maximum capacity of 12 students per course and term.

If you prefer a daytime class, we will very likely also have a Friday morning class available (TBC). 

Class Recordings

These classes are not recorded

Attendance Certificate

Successful completion of this course leads to the award of an Imperial College attendance certificate

Terms and conditions  apply to all enrolments to this course. Please read them before enrolment

Course Information

Course programme and additional reading.

Course Programme  ( may be subject to some modification )

In the first session the group will get to know each other and we will explore your aims and aspirations in writing. From there, we will begin to discuss the practical and technical aspects of producing compelling narratives: finding the centre (finding our voice and identifying stories to tell), character development and consistency, narrative structure and plotting, world-building (evoking time and place), planning and improvisation, and more. Through discussion of published short stories and brief extracts from great novels and books on the craft, we will examine the key elements that combine to produce outstanding writing.

Brief in-class writing exercises will help you to develop your writing skills in general and will inspire and augment your work in progress. As we move further into the course, we will begin to discuss the central piece of writing (1,000-2,000 words in length) that is emerging from each member of the class. These workshops take place in a positive and supportive atmosphere, and are hugely valuable to the writing process as a whole.

Centred around discussion, and exploring both the practical and technical sides of producing excellent writing, Short Stories and First Chapters is suitable for both beginners and writers with some experience of life writing and/or fiction.

Additional Reading

There is no set reading list, but you might be interested in these publications on the craft:

• The Writers' & Artists' Yearbook  - includes an article by your course tutor: 'How creative writing courses benefit a writer'. (London: Bloomsbury, 2023, 2024, 2025)
• Ailsa Cox,  Writing Short Stories  (London: Routledge, 2016)
• John Mullan,  How Novels Work  (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2008)
• Anne Lamott,  Bird by Bird  (London: Doubleday, 1994)

His awards include a final year prize for outstanding achievement (UEA, BA), the Alumni Association Prize for Fiction (UEA, MA), two Arts Council Writers' Award wins, a Hawthornden Fellowship and a Wingate Scholarship. His fiction has been published in various anthologies and magazines, among them New Writing, A Little Nest of Pedagogues (in dual English and Chinese texts), The London Magazine and Esquire.

Martin has taught creative writing for the Arts Council England, the British Council, City University, the Kingston Writing School, UEA, and the Chelsea Community Hospital School. He has reviewed books for the Sunday Times, the FT and the Observer.

Lee Brackstone has written of Martin's fiction: 'I would struggle to find a writer of comparable talent in Martin's generation.' The late Deborah Rogers wrote: 'I think his is a voice of true originality and distinction, and one that will in time emerge as a major player in a new generation of British novelists.'

Martin recently completed his novel  The Cost of Loving  with the generous support of Arts Council England.

Course Fees and Rate Categories

Rate Categories and Discounts

Standard Rate

• Available to all except those who fall under the Internal Rate or Associate Rate category.

Internal Rate

• Current Imperial College students and staff (incl. Imperial NHS Trust, Imperial Innovations, ancillary & service staff employed on long-term contracts at Imperial College by third-party contractors)
• People enrolling under our Friends & Family scheme
• Alumni of Imperial College and predecessor colleges and institutes, including City & Guilds College Association members
• Students, staff and alumni of the Royal College of Art, Royal College of Music and City, UAL and the City and Guilds of London Art School
• Students, staff and Governors of Woodhouse College and the IC Mathematics School

Associate Rate

• Austrian Cultural Forum staff
• Co-operative College members
• Francis Crick Institute staff, researchers and students
• Friends and Patrons of the English Chamber Orchestra
• Friends of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens
• Friends of Leighton House/ Sambourne House
• Friends of the Royal College of Music
• Harrods staff
• Historic Royal Palaces staff
• Lycee Charles de Gaulle staff
• Members of the Friends of Imperial College
• Members of the Kennel Club
• Members of the London Zoological Society
• Members of the South London Botanical Institute (SLBI)
• Members of the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP)
• National Health Service (NHS) employees
• Natural History Museum staff
• Residents of postcodes SW3, SW5, SW7, SW10 and W8
• Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea Council staff
• Royal Geographical Society staff
• Science Museum staff
• Staff of Exhibition Road Cultural Group (Discover South Kensington) organisations
• Students (non-Imperial College)
• Teachers and other staff of UK schools
• The American Institute for Foreign Study
• Tutors and other staff of institution members of the Association of Colleges
• Tutors and other staff of other universities and higher education institutions
• Victoria and Albert Museum staff

Late enrolment

It is possible to enrol on many of our adult education courses after the course has already started. For non-language courses this is subject entirely to agreement by the tutor. For language courses it is subject to agreement by the language coordinator conducting level assessment. If you want to join a course late do bear in mind there might be work you will need to catch up on, particularly in language courses.

Friends and Family Scheme

This course is eligible for allowing Imperial College students and staff to share their discount with their friends and family.

Term Dates 2024-25

Enrolment Process

Enrolment via the blue booking link is open. Early-bird discounts are available until the end of 30 September 2024

Enrolment and payment run through the Imperial College eStore. When enrolling:

• Do check on the drop down menu above called "Course Fees and Rate Categories" to see if you are eligible for a discounted rate and also do make sure you select that rate when enrolling on the eStore
• If you are a first-time eStore user you will need to create an account before enrolling. You can do this by entering an email address and password. This account can then be used for any future enrolments via the eStore.

When you have enrolled you will be sent the following email notifications:

Any Questions?

If you have any questions about the content or teaching of this course please contact the Course Tutor,  Martin Ouvry ,   [email protected]

If you have any questions about your enrolment or payment processes please contact the Programme Administrator,  Christian Jacobi ,   [email protected]

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Creative writing.

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• Creative Writing Courses

Creative writing courses 2024 at Bookseller Crow Bookshop are:

Creative Writing Course (fiction and autobiographical writing) – places still availiable

• Tuesday 12th November – 17th December,  7.30 – 9.30pm

Writing a Memoir course (new for 2024) – FULLY BOOKED

• Tuesday 24th September – 29th October 2024

For more information read below. To enrol, register interest, or ask a question, email: [email protected] 

Creative Writing Course Information

Designed to help you discover what you are interested in writing about – and in which form – on one hand the course introduces elements of craft, while equally encouraging experimentation. In this highly practical course (you will get writing from the off!) feedback, encouragement and writing tips gathered from my years as a writer are offered along the way. The instruction given is highly supportive, at times playful, and always encouraging to aid everyone in their creative pursuits.

Aside from time spent at the workshop with the group, you’ll need to write for a few hours within the week. Ahead of the course start date, students will receive a suggested reading list to inspire and invigorate. The sessions are delivered live in the events area of Bookseller Crow Bookshop with some course material and information sent via email. Places are offered on a first come first served basis and the total cost is £179.

The group is capped at twelve writers to maintain the personal bonding found within creative workshops. Classes are suitable for over 18’s, and aimed toward beginners or writers who wish to gain confidence and find motivation to write. This course is also suitable for those with a special interest in writing fiction or using autobiographical material.

Exercises will be set each week during class time as well as the explorative ‘creative assignments’ to be completed outside of class. During the six weeks these aspects will be explored:

• ​Writing autobiography/memoir
• How autobiography can inspire fiction
• Building characters
• Point of view
• Story structure/shape
• Using dialogue – necessary or an add-on?

In the final week there will be tips on how to keep writing and then the reading party where we celebrate your achievements so far.

Writing a Memoir – Course Information

Tuesday 24th September – 29th October 2024, 7.30-9.30pm 

Do you want to write a memoir and don’t know where or how to start? Or perhaps you’re already working on one and need ideas on how to continue? Or do you simply wish to explore your life through writing with no definite outcome? Whether you are beginning or already writing then this course is for you.

There are so many rich possibilities for compelling narratives based on our true stories – including lives and experiences that might seem very ordinary until they’re held up to the light.

Over the six evenings of the course, prize-winning writer and memoirist, Karen McLeod, will take you on an in-depth exploration of your memories. She will aid your gathering of material and introduce you to the techniques you’ll need to sharpen your prose style. This will enable you to start shaping your lived experience into a readable and lively story.

Karen is the author of the memoir  Lifting Off   published by Muswell Press in 2024. Her first novel  In Search of the Missing Eyelash  won a Betty Trask Award and was translated widely. In a previous life, Karen worked for British Airways as cabin crew and it was this experience which sent her into freefall, and then many years later became the story for  L ifting Off.

As a gay working-class writer, Karen welcomes everyone from all backgrounds to apply, especially those in need of encouragement who don’t feel ‘seen’ in the contemporary literary or UK landscape.

The price of the course is £199 and the maximum class size is twelve people. There will be two concessionary places available for those who are unwaged or having financial difficulties (contact Karen for more details).

WEEK 1 Digging into the past – maps and photos

WEEK 2 Memory & truth – My story not The Story

WEEK 3 Planning & structure – strong beginnings in memoirs. Reading other texts for inspiration.

WEEK 4 Tools for storytelling – how do stories work and finding your authentic voice

WEEK 5 Building your writing ​ WEEK 6 Reading party – and looking to the future

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Participant feedback (October 2023)

“The main thing I wanted to say was ‘thank you’. When I took your course, I had a real case of lost mojo. I found you properly inspiring and your approach to life writing really helped me reconnect. The novel I’m working on had its genesis in your class so you had a very real impact.”

“I got exactly what I wanted and needed on your course! I was looking for ways to access writing that felt all locked up inside of me and I didn’t want to ‘learn to write like everyone else’… Thank you for an absolutely fantastic course.”

“I loved the course – it knocked me off my normal pattern of thinking and got me to try new things! Also I got some really useful feedback.”

Karen McLeod Karen McLeod is a prize-winning author ( In Search Of The Missing Eyelash ) and performer of comic poet Barbara Brownskirt . She holds an MA in Creative Life Writing from Goldsmiths University and is Bookseller Crow’s writer-in-residence and literary events co-ordinator. Her memoir on flying as cabin crew, Lifting Off, will be published in 2024.

For the last ten years she has run Creative Writing courses within the bookshop, and in lockdown delivered them online. These workshops have proved hugely popular, both creatively and for the community, linking together creatives from Crystal Palace, South-East London and beyond.

Those attending the course have gone on to write successful TV dramas, radio plays, poetry, novels and performance. In 2019 Kate Davies had her debut novel published, In At The Deep End by Borough Press and in 2020 it won the  Polari  prize. Many writers attending the classes form strong friendships and continue to meet in their own writing groups. Karen also runs workshops for other organisations and recently has worked with The Shakespeare Archive Trust, Positive East, a lecturer for University for the Creative Arts and tours with the LGBTQI+ literary salon POLARI.

See Karen’s website www.karenmcleod.co.uk

‘In Search of the Missing Eyelash’ by Karen McLeod

Karen’s debut novel ‘In Search of the Missing Eyelash’ was originally published by Jonathan Cape, won the Betty Trask Award and was shortlisted for the Best First Novel Award. Since then she has been widely published in the milieus of fiction and non-fiction. Her memoir, ‘Lifting Off’ about flying as cabin crew and flailing will be published in June 2024 by Muswell Press when they will also bring out a new edition of ‘In Search of the Missing Eyelash’. Both will be available at Bookseller Crow soon.

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With creative writing courses running in London, Newcastle and online , across evenings, daytime and weekends as well as those that are entirely self-paced and flexible, find the course that best suits you and your particular goals and needs.

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Creative Writing Degrees  Degrees Also known as an undergraduate or bachelors degree. Internationally respected, universally understood. An essential requirement for many high-level jobs. Gain a thorough understanding of your subject – and the tools to investigate, think critically, form reasoned arguments, solve problems and communicate effectively in new contexts. Progress to higher level study, such as a postgraduate diploma or masters degree.

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• One credit represents about 10 hours of study over the duration of the course.
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• For example, if you study a 60-credit module and successfully pass it, you will be awarded 60 credits.

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Creative Writing Diplomas  Diplomas Widely recognised qualification. Equivalent to the first two thirds of an honours degree. Enhance your professional and technical skills or extend your knowledge and understanding of a subject. Study for interest or career development. Top up to a full honours degree in just two years.

Creative writing certificates  certificates widely recognised qualification. equivalent to the first third of an honours degree. study for interest or career development. shows that you can study successfully at university level. count it towards further qualifications such as a diphe or honours degree., why study creative writing with the open university.

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Earning A Master’s In Creative Writing: What To Know

Updated: Nov 1, 2023, 1:51pm

Do you want to create written work that ignites a reader’s imagination and even changes their worldview? With a master’s in creative writing, you can develop strong storytelling and character development skills, equipping you to achieve your writing goals.

If you’re ready to strengthen your writing chops and you enjoy writing original works to inspire others, tell interesting stories and share valuable information, earning a master’s in creative writing may be the next step on your career journey.

The skills learned in a creative writing master’s program qualify you to write your own literary works, teach others creative writing principles or pursue various other careers.

This article explores master’s degrees in creative writing, including common courses and concentrations, admission requirements and careers that use creative writing skills. Read on to learn more about earning a master’s degree in creative writing.

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What Is a Master’s in Creative Writing?

A master’s in creative writing is an advanced degree that helps you develop the skills to write your own novel, poetry, screenplay or nonfiction book. This degree can also prepare you for a career in business, publishing, education, marketing or communications.

In a creative writing master’s degree program, you can expect to analyze literature, explore historical contexts of literary works, master techniques for revising and editing, engage in class workshops and peer critiques, and write your own original work.

Creative writing master’s programs usually require a thesis project, which should be well-written, polished and ready to publish. Typical examples of thesis projects include poetry collections, memoirs, essay collections, short story collections and novels.

A master’s in creative writing typically requires about 36 credits and takes two years to complete. Credit requirements and timelines vary by program, so you may be able to finish your degree quicker.

Specializations for a Master’s in Creative Writing

Below are a few common concentrations for creative writing master’s programs. These vary by school, so your program’s offerings may look different.

This concentration helps you develop fiction writing skills, such as plot development, character creation and world-building. A fiction concentration is a good option if you plan to write short stories, novels or other types of fiction.

A nonfiction concentration focuses on the mechanics of writing nonfiction narratives. If you plan to write memoirs, travel pieces, magazine articles, technical documents or nonfiction books, this concentration may suit you.

Explore the imagery, tone, rhythm and structure of poetry with a poetry concentration. With this concentration, you can expect to develop your poetry writing skills and learn to curate poetry for journals and magazines.

Screenwriting

Screenwriting is an excellent concentration to explore if you enjoy creating characters and telling stories to make them come alive for television or film. This specialization covers how to write shorts, episodic serials, documentaries and feature-length film scripts.

Admission Requirements for a Master’s in Creative Writing

Below are some typical admission requirements for master’s in creative writing degree programs. These requirements vary, so check with your program to ensure you’ve met the appropriate requirements.

• Application for admission
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Transcripts from previous education
• Writing samples
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement or essay

Common Courses in a Master’s in Creative Writing

Story and concept.

This course focuses on conceptualizing, planning and developing stories on a structural level. Learners study how to generate ideas, develop interesting plots, create outlines, draft plot arcs, engage in world-building and create well-rounded characters who move their stories forward.

Graduate Studies in English Literature

Understanding literature is essential to building a career in creative writing. This course prepares you to teach, study literature or write professionally. Expect to discuss topics such as phonology, semantics, dialects, syntax and the history of the English language.

Workshop in Creative Nonfiction

You’ll study classic and contemporary creative nonfiction in this course. Workshops in creative nonfiction explore how different genres have emerged throughout history and how previous works influence new works. In some programs, this course focuses on a specific theme.

Foundations in Fiction

In this course, you’ll explore how the novel has developed throughout literary history and how the short story emerged as an art form. Coursework includes reading classic and contemporary works, writing response essays and crafting critical analyses.

MA in Creative Writing vs. MFA in Creative Writing: What’s the Difference?

While the degrees are similar, a master of arts in creative writing is different from a master of fine arts in creative writing. An MA in creative writing teaches creative writing competencies, building analytical skills through studying literature, literary theory and related topics. This lets you explore storytelling along with a more profound knowledge of literature and literary theory.

If you want your education to take a more academic perspective so you can build a career in one of many fields related to writing, an MA in creative writing may be right for you.

An MFA prepares you to work as a professional writer or novelist. MFA students graduate with a completed manuscript that is ready for publishing. Coursework highlights subjects related to the business of writing, such as digital publishing, the importance of building a platform on social media , marketing, freelancing and teaching. An MA in creative writing also takes less time and requires fewer credits than an MFA.

If you want to understand the business of writing and work as a professional author or novelist, earning an MFA in creative writing might be your best option.

What Can You Do With a Master’s in Creative Writing?

Below are several careers you can pursue with a master’s in creative writing. We sourced salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Postsecondary Creative Writing Teacher

Median Annual Salary: $74,280 Minimum Required Education: Ph.D. or another doctoral degree; master’s degree may be accepted at some schools and community colleges Job Overview: Postsecondary teachers, also known as professors or faculty, teach students at the college level. They plan lessons, advise students, serve on committees, conduct research, publish original research, supervise graduate teaching assistants, apply for grants for their research and teach subjects in their areas of expertise.

Median Annual Salary: $73,080 Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s degree in English or a related field Job Overview: Editors plan, revise and edit written materials for publication. They work for newspapers, magazines, book publishers, advertising agencies, media networks, and motion picture and video production companies. Editors work closely with writers to ensure their written work is accurate, grammatically correct and written in the appropriate style for the medium.

Median Annual Salary: $55,960 Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s degree in journalism or a related field Job Overview: Journalists research and write stories about local, regional, national and global current events and other newsworthy subjects. Journalists need strong interviewing, editing, analytical and writing skills. Some journalists specialize in a subject, such as sports or politics, and some are generalists. They work for news organizations, magazines and online publications, and some work as freelancers.

Writer or Author

Median Annual Salary: $73,150 Minimum Required Education: None; bachelor’s degree in creative writing or a related field sometimes preferred Job Overview: Writers and authors write fiction or nonfiction content for magazines, plays, blogs, books, television scripts and other forms of media. Novelists, biographers, copywriters, screenwriters and playwrights all fall into this job classification. Writers may work for advertising agencies, news platforms, book publishers and other organizations; some work as freelancers.

Technical Writer

Median Annual Salary: $79,960 Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s degree Job Overview: Technical writers craft technical documents, such as training manuals and how-to guides. They are adept at simplifying technical information so lay people can easily understand it. Technical writers may work with technical staff, graphic designers, computer support specialists and software developers to create user-friendly finished pieces.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About a Master's in Creative Writing

Is a master’s in creative writing useful.

If your goal is to launch a career as a writer, then yes, a master’s in creative writing is useful. An MA in creative writing is a versatile degree that prepares you for various jobs requiring excellent writing skills.

Is an MFA better than an MA for creative writing?

One is not better than the other; you should choose the one that best equips you for the career you want. An MFA prepares you to build a career as a professional writer or novelist. An MA prepares you for various jobs demanding high-level writing skills.

What kind of jobs can you get with a creative writing degree?

A creative writing degree prepares you for many types of writing jobs. It helps you build your skills and gain expertise to work as an editor, writer, author, technical writer or journalist. This degree is also essential if you plan to teach writing classes at the college level.

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Sheryl Grey is a freelance writer who specializes in creating content related to education, aging and senior living, and real estate. She is also a copywriter who helps businesses grow through expert website copywriting, branding and content creation. Sheryl holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from Indiana University South Bend, and she received her teacher certification training through Bethel University’s Transition to Teaching program.

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Monday, December 04, 2017

Venturing into the Slipstream - Interview with Mark Refoy - From Spacemen 3 to Spiritualized...

I don’t have any real desire to be a part of it again, but you never know how you’ll feel about these things until they actually happen and in this case, it ain’t happening baby!

Coming soon - Interviews with author Stewart Home, artist Matt Mahurin, and more on my album collaboration with Australia's Paper Kites.  Until then, check out the new American-Noir originals at El Paseo's A Gallery, Friday 1st December, 2017.

American Noir Paintings

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